The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has announced the suspension of an officer after a video surfaced on social media showing him soliciting financial gratification from a traveller.
The video, titled “This is how Immigration officers treat tourists in Nigeria,” depicts Assistant Superintendent of Immigration II (ASI 2) Okpravero C. Ufuoma engaging in an unethical act at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
In a statement signed by Kemi Nandap, the Comptroller General of the NIS condemned the officer’s behaviour, emphasizing that it does not reflect the organization’s values and ethics of professionalism.
“The conduct of the officer identified as Ufuoma is not representative of the Nigeria Immigration Service’s commitment to hospitality, reception, and courtesy,” Nandap stated.
The NIS has taken a firm stance against this misconduct, as it undermined the ongoing reforms aimed at enhancing service standards.
“This disgraceful act is not representative of our commitment to hospitality, reception, and courtesy,” the statement continued.
To address and prevent such incidents, the NIS has been implementing electronic gates (e-gates) at all international airports across the country.
These measures are designed to facilitate smoother travel for all passengers, particularly Nigerians, and to ensure that such misconduct does not recur.
The officer in question has been indefinitely suspended pending the outcome of disciplinary procedures, which will be conducted by the law and Public Service Rules.
The NIS reiterated its commitment to identifying and removing corrupt elements within its ranks, in line with its Zero-Tolerance for Corruption policy.
“We assure the public that the NIS will continue to strive for excellence in service delivery, in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of this administration,” Nandap noted.
The NIS further called on the public to support its efforts in maintaining high standards of professionalism and integrity within the service.
